Knoxville Boosts Defense Innovation with $12.4 Million Investment in 3D-Printed Jet Engines

Knoxville’s Exciting Leap in 3D-Printed Jet Engine Production

In a thrilling development for the defense and aerospace industry, Knoxville is set to become a major player in cutting-edge technology with the announcement of a new contract for Beehive Industries. On October 29, it was revealed that the U.S. Air Force is backing this innovative company with a generous $12.4 million investment. This contract aims to bolster production at their recently expanded Knoxville facility, which means more jobs and advancements in military technology for our community.

The Big News

What’s the scoop? Beehive Industries, a company that specializes in 3D printing high-performance jet engines for unmanned military vehicles, will kick off its contract by designing and producing 30 engines, each capable of generating around 200 pounds of thrust. This isn’t just about numbers; it represents a huge leap in how fast and cost-effectively engines can be made for military applications.

According to Jim Whalen, a spokesperson for Beehive, the company is not just ramping up production but also planning to bring 20 new jobs to the Knoxville area by 2025. That’s great news for local employment and the economy!

Fast and Cost-effective Solutions

Beehive Industries is on a mission to change the game for military air defense by creating engines that are twice as fast and cost half as much compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Amazing, right? Their engines are designed for unmanned vehicles like drones and cruise missiles, providing a much-needed edge in modern warfare capabilities. Unlike commercial jet engines, these unmanned vehicle engines have fewer safety regulations, which allows for quicker evolution and testing.

Innovative Foundations

Founded in 2020 by a group of passionate professionals with strong backgrounds in aerospace, including a notable pedigree from GE Aerospace, Beehive has quickly earned a reputation for innovation. They currently employ over 180 people across their operations in Cincinnati, Denver, and of course, right here in Knoxville. The company also benefits from the expert resources available at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, an essential hub for research in additive manufacturing.

A Home in Knoxville

Beehive’s move to Knoxville began in 2021 when they acquired Volunteer Aerospace. Now, they are making their presence felt across the city, maintaining both the Volunteer facility on Schaeffer Road and a larger facility located at 10505 Murdock Drive that spans a whopping 60,000 square feet. This space is not just a factory; it represents a revolutionary process where metal powder enters one side, and a fully functional jet engine comes out the other!

Changing the Way We Make Engines

One of the most fascinating aspects of Beehive’s operations is the speed at which they can take an engine from concept to testing, which can take as little as 13 months. Typically, traditional jet engine production could stretch for years. This agility allows Beehive to respond more efficiently to the needs of the military, ensuring that the U.S. remains at the forefront of defense technology.

A Vision for the Future

Beehive plans to expand its family of engines, aiming for thrust levels that range from 100 to 5,000 pounds. While they have made significant strides, their mission doesn’t stop here. With the innovative leadership of CEO Mohammad Ehteshami, who previously led groundbreaking projects at GE, the sky is truly the limit.

In conclusion, Knoxville is indeed on the map for high-tech military manufacturing and innovation that keeps pace with the ever-evolving landscape of defense technology. With new contracts, more jobs, and an expanding repertoire of products, Beehive Industries is an exciting headline in our community.